SEAT Leon Cupra Mk3
The Spanish hot hatch that broke the Nürburgring front-wheel-drive record.
- Power
- 280 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.7 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
About the SEAT Leon Cupra Mk3
Launched in 2014, the Mk3 Leon Cupra 280 was a significant leap for SEAT, utilizing the Volkswagen Group's MQB platform to offer a sharper, lighter, and more potent alternative to the Golf GTI. It famously became the first front-wheel-drive production car to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife in under eight minutes, clocking a time of 7:58.4. The 280 trim features a mechanical front-axle differential lock (VAQ) and Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) as standard, providing exceptional agility and traction. While it shares its EA888 engine with the Audi S3 and Golf R, the Leon's front-drive setup and aggressive styling give it a distinct, more playful character.
SEAT Leon Cupra Mk3 specs
The SEAT Leon Cupra Mk3 produces 280 bhp (209 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | SEAT |
|---|---|
| Model | Leon Cupra |
| Generation | Mk3 |
| Trim | 280 |
| Years | 2014–2020 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Spain |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 280 bhp (209 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.7 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,395 kg (3,075 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 201 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
SEAT Leon Cupra Mk3 rarity in CarSpot
The SEAT Leon Cupra Mk3 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 8 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
SEAT Leon Cupra Mk3 fun facts
- The Leon Cupra 280 was the first front-wheel-drive production car to break the 8-minute barrier at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
- It features a 'VAQ' electronically controlled mechanical limited-slip differential, which uses a multi-plate clutch to transfer up to 100% of torque to a single wheel.
- The 280 was replaced by the Cupra 290 in late 2015, which added a revised exhaust system for a more aggressive sound.